On the occasion of Pongal, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lauded Tamil culture and the contribution of farmers, emphasizing the festival's message of harmony and gratitude. Pongal, a vibrant harvest festival predominantly celebrated in Tamil Nadu, is a four-day-long celebration that expresses gratitude to the Sun God, nature, and farm animals for a bountiful harvest. The festival also marks the beginning of the Tamil month of Thai, considered an auspicious time.
This year, Pongal falls on January 14th and will end on January 16th. The celebrations began with Bhogi Pongal on January 13th, a day for cleansing and renewal where families discard old items and light bonfires to symbolize new beginnings. The main day, Thai Pongal or Surya Pongal, is on January 14th, dedicated to the Sun God. Families prepare the traditional sweet dish "Pongal" using freshly harvested rice, jaggery, and milk, offering it to the Sun as a token of gratitude. Homes are adorned with kolams (rangoli), turmeric plants, and sugarcane, creating a festive atmosphere. Mattu Pongal on January 15th is dedicated to honoring cattle, which play a vital role in agriculture. The final day, Kaanum Pongal, is for family gatherings, relaxation, and cultural festivities.
Prime Minister Modi participated in Pongal celebrations at the residence of Union Minister L. Murugan in New Delhi. He highlighted that Pongal has become a global festival, cherished by Tamils worldwide. He noted that the festival celebrates the hard work of farmers and expresses gratitude to the land and the sun. Modi emphasized the importance of maintaining a harmonious balance between nature, family, and society, urging everyone to cherish and protect the Earth.
Modi also underscored the significance of Tamil culture, describing it as one of the world's oldest living civilizations, embodying centuries of wisdom and tradition. He said that today's India draws strength from its cultural roots as it moves forward and that the spirit of trust and unity propelling India is deeply connected to its culture and respect for its land.
The Prime Minister highlighted the need to focus on soil health, water conservation, and wise resource utilization for future generations. He mentioned initiatives like Mission LiFE, Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam, and Amrit Sarovar as embodying this spirit. Modi extended his greetings to everyone on Makar Sankranti, Magh Bihu, and other festivals celebrated across the country at this time. He conveyed his best wishes to Tamil communities in India and worldwide, hoping the festival brings prosperity, success, and good health.
